Bonta Makes History as First Filipino-American to Serve as California Attorney General

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, the Democratic Attorneys General Association (DAGA) released the following statements from Co-Chairs Massachusetts AG Maura Healey and Nevada AG Aaron Ford and Executive Director Sean Rankin regarding California Governor Gavin Newsom’s announcement that Assemblymember Rob Bonta will be appointed to serve as the next California Attorney General. Bonta will fill the position vacated by now HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra. DAGA looks forward to a swift approval by the California State Legislature.

Statement from Massachusetts AG Maura Healey and Nevada AG Aaron Ford, Co-Chairs of the Democratic Attorneys General Association

“On behalf of all Democratic Attorneys General we want to say congratulations to Rob Bonta on being nominated to serve as the next Attorney General of California.”

“We know Bonta has the experience, knowledge, and drive to tackle the multiple crises Californians – and people across the country – are facing during these trying times. There is no doubt Bonta will continue the legacy of being a true people’s lawyer for all Californians – just like his predecessors HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra and Vice President Kamala Harris.”

“We look forward to working with Bonta in the coming days, months and years to protect the people, fight for every community, and hold the powerful accountable — just as Democratic Attorneys General have done for decades.”

Statement from Sean Rankin, Executive Director of the Democratic Attorneys General Association

“We are thrilled to welcome Rob Bonta into our room here at the Democratic Attorneys General Association. Bonta’s strong track record of fighting for justice and equity—whether it be criminal justice and immigration reforms, environmental justice, or consumer protection—sets him up for success as he takes charge at California DOJ.”

“Bonta’s selection continues the legacy of the people’s lawyers truly reflecting the people they serve. Just as now Vice President Harris and now HHS Secretary Becerra before him, Bonta will make history — becoming the first Filipino-American to serve as California Attorney General.”

“At a time when hate crimes towards the API community are increasingly visible, we commend Governor Newsom for elevating a leading API voice to this nationally recognized office. Bonta is a lifelong public servant and has the experience to lead this new era at California DOJ.”

“We look forward to working closely with Bonta and his team in the coming days and months as he takes the reins of the largest state DOJ. We cannot wait to see all he accomplishes on behalf of the people of California.”

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